Formula 1 has inked a 10-year agreement with Rwanda to bring Grand Prix racing back to Africa, with the first event scheduled for the early 2030s. This landmark deal will see a new, purpose-built circuit constructed in Bugesera, located 25 miles south of the capital Kigali, adjacent to the city's new international airport.
This move marks F1's return to the African continent for the first time since 1993. The circuit, designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, is intended to harmonise with the natural landscape, utilising the area's elevation changes to create a unique and challenging racing experience for both drivers and fans.
F1 hopes this new race will expand the sport's profile in Africa, a market it considers relatively unexplored compared to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed pride in hosting the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, highlighting its potential to bring jobs, skills, tourism, and new business to the country and region for decades to come.
F1 president Stefano Domenicali called the new contract a "landmark moment for F1," stating it would mean the sport is racing "on every inhabited continent." He added that Africa has always been part of Formula 1's future, with a commitment to return in a meaningful way.
The race is anticipated to face scrutiny from human rights groups, who may accuse Rwanda of sportswashing, similar to past controversies surrounding its sponsorship of Premier League football clubs. F1 stated it has the opportunity to inspire and bring the passion of F1 to 100 million people across Africa, believing sport can be a positive force for good.